Apples are a globally popular and highly nutritious fruit. For those managing diets (keto, low-carb, or diabetic), knowing the exact carb count is essential. The quick answer is that a medium-sized apple (about 182g, with skin) contains approximately 25 grams of total carbohydrates.
Crucially, this fruit is packed with 4.4 grams of dietary fiber, which is not digested, meaning the apple provides only 20.6 grams of net carbohydrates (the carbs that impact blood sugar).
The final count varies by size and variety—for instance, a large, sweet Honeycrisp can exceed 27g total carbs, while a tart Granny Smith is closer to 23.5g. This guide details the full nutritional profile by size, variety, and preparation to help you fit this staple into any lifestyle.
How Many Carbs Are in an Apple? (Quick Answer Table)
Before diving into the detailed explanations, the table below provides a concise, at-a-glance summary of the carbohydrate and nutritional values for common apple sizes, serving as a powerful reference point for calculating your daily intake.
The figures below are based on an average, commercially available red apple, consumed with the skin on, which contains the bulk of the beneficial fiber. This answers the most direct searches for how many carbs does an apple have and how many grams of carbs in an apple.
| Apple Size | Approximate Weight | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) | Calories (kcal) |
| Small | ~130g (4.6 oz) | 19.5 g | 3.0 g | 16.5 g | 14.5 g | 68 |
| Medium | ~182g (6.4 oz) | 25.0 g | 4.4 g | 20.6 g | 19.0 g | 95 |
| Large | ~220g (7.8 oz) | 30.5 g | 5.3 g | 25.2 g | 23.0 g | 116 |
| Half Medium Apple | ~91g (3.2 oz) | 12.5 g | 2.2 g | 10.3 g | 9.5 g | 47 |
The data confirms that the answer to how many carbs is in an apple largely depends on its physical size. A medium apple (approximately the size of a baseball) typically contains around 25 grams of total carbohydrates.
Carbs in an Apple by Size
The most significant factor influencing an apple’s carbohydrate count is its size. When asking how many carbs in an apple, it’s crucial to specify whether you are referring to a small snack apple or a large baking variety. The sheer volume difference can translate to an 11-gram variation in total carbs between the smallest and largest sizes.
Carbs in a Small Apple
A small apple is generally defined as one weighing between 100 and 130 grams, roughly the size of a billiard ball or a tennis ball. These are often the preferred choice for controlled snacking or for inclusion in low-carb diets due to their manageable size and carb content.
When considering how many carbs in a small apple, the count is significantly lower than a medium or large fruit. A small apple contains approximately 19.5 grams of total carbohydrates. With about 3.0 grams of dietary fiber, the net carbs in a small apple come in at approximately 16.5 grams.
The smaller size allows you to enjoy the benefits of the fruit—including its vitamins, antioxidants, and a burst of satisfying sweetness—while maintaining tight control over your sugar and carb intake. For example, a small Gala apple falls into this category and is an excellent, light snack.
Carbs in a Medium Apple
The medium apple is the standard serving size used in the USDA and most commercial nutrition data. It weighs roughly 150 to 182 grams. If you pick up an apple in a grocery store without specific size labeling, it will most likely fall into this range.
For those wondering how many carbs in a medium apple or a medium-sized apple, the total carbohydrate count hovers around 25 grams. This serving provides a balanced mix of sugar, fiber, and water, making it very satiating. The 25 grams of total carbs include roughly 4.4 grams of fiber, leaving you with about 20.6 grams of net carbohydrates. This size is ideal for a post-workout snack to replenish glycogen stores or as a fiber-rich addition to breakfast.
Carbs in a Large Apple
A large apple is typically a substantial fruit, weighing 200 to 220 grams or more. These are often the varieties used for baking, pressing juice, or slicing for a full meal supplement.
The question of how many carbs in a large apple yields the highest number. A large apple contains approximately 30.5 grams of total carbohydrates. Given that this size is over 50% larger than a small apple, the carb count reflects that increase, with roughly 5.3 grams of fiber and 25.2 grams of net carbs. While still a healthy food choice, individuals on very strict low-carb diets need to account for this higher count, as one large apple can account for a significant portion of a daily carb allowance.
Carbs in Half an Apple
If you are particularly mindful of your carb consumption, or simply looking for a light snack, eating only half of an apple is a perfect solution. This allows you to reap the nutritional benefits of the fruit while precisely halving the macronutrient load.
How many carbs in half an apple? Taking a medium apple as the baseline (25g total carbs), half an apple provides approximately 12.5 grams of total carbohydrates. This serving size also offers about 2.2 grams of dietary fiber and roughly 9.5 grams of sugar, making it an excellent, low-glycemic, and satisfying treat. Splitting an apple is an easy way to manage blood sugar spikes and integrate fruit into a moderate, low-carb eating plan.
Carbs in an Apple by Skin
A frequently debated topic among health enthusiasts is whether to consume the apple skin. While the skin is famously packed with nutrients and antioxidants, it also contributes measurably to the fiber and carbohydrate content.
Carbs in an Apple With Skin
Eating an apple with the skin is generally recommended by nutritionists due to the concentrated benefits found just beneath the surface. This is where the highest concentration of insoluble fiber, soluble fiber, antioxidants (like quercetin), and phytochemicals resides.
How many carbs in an apple with skin? The skin itself holds a small amount of both carbohydrates and fiber. In a medium apple (182g), the total carbohydrates, including the skin, are approximately 25.0 grams. Crucially, the skin provides a substantial portion of the total dietary fiber (around 4.4 grams). When you eat the skin, you increase the fiber, which in turn lowers the overall glycemic load and helps regulate digestion. Therefore, the fiber-to-carb ratio is more favorable when the skin is consumed.
Carbs in an Apple Without Skin
When the skin is removed, the nutritional profile changes slightly, primarily by reducing the fiber content. Some people may prefer to eat apples without the skin due to texture preference, specific digestive sensitivities, or when preparing purees and sauces.
How many carbs in an apple without skin? The total carbohydrate count of a peeled medium apple drops very slightly to approximately 23.5 grams. However, the key difference is the dramatic reduction in dietary fiber, which decreases from 4.4 grams to about 2.5 grams.
This reduction in fiber has two important consequences:
- Increased Net Carbs: By losing 1.9 grams of fiber, the net carbs increase slightly, shifting from 20.6 grams (with skin) to 21.0 grams (without skin). The loss of non-digestible fiber means a higher percentage of the remaining carbohydrate is sugar, which is quickly absorbed.
- Higher Glycemic Load: The reduced fiber means the sugars are absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream. This can lead to a slightly higher and faster spike in blood sugar compared to eating the whole apple.
Therefore, for optimal health benefits and blood sugar control, consuming the apple with its skin on is the superior choice, despite the minimal change in total carb count.
Carbs in Different Types of Apples (Varieties Section)
Not all apples are created equal. Different varieties—from the tart Granny Smith to the sweet Honeycrisp—have distinct sizes, water content, density, and sugar-to-acid ratios. These factors directly impact the carbohydrate and calorie totals. This section details the carbohydrate breakdown for the most popular apple varieties, based on a standardized medium-sized fruit (approximately 182g).
Honeycrisp
The Honeycrisp apple is a modern marvel, renowned for its exceptional sweetness and explosive crunch. This sweetness is a direct indicator of its sugar content, which means it tends to rank among the higher-carb varieties.
For those counting, how many carbs in a Honeycrisp apple is a crucial question. A medium Honeycrisp apple typically weighs slightly more and has a higher sugar density than average.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Honeycrisp (Medium) | 27.0 g | 4.4 g | 22.6 g | 21.0 g |
Because of its high sugar (and therefore, higher carb) content, the Honeycrisp should be enjoyed in moderation if you are closely monitoring your intake, although the fiber content remains high, helping to mitigate the sugar impact. If you are curious about how many carbs are in a Honeycrisp apple, always err on the side of a slightly higher estimate.
Granny Smith
The Granny Smith apple is the quintessential “green apple,” easily recognizable by its bright green skin and characteristically tart, acidic flavor. This tartness is a tell-tale sign that it contains less sugar and often fewer total carbohydrates than its sweeter red counterparts.
How many carbs in a Granny Smith apple? Due to its lower sugar concentration, the Granny Smith is frequently the top choice for low-carb dieters.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Granny Smith (Medium) | 23.5 g | 4.8 g | 18.7 g | 17.0 g |
The Granny Smith offers one of the lowest net carb counts among common varieties, making it an excellent choice for those managing type 2 diabetes or following keto-friendly guidelines. The substantial dietary fiber also contributes to better gut health and sustained energy release. If you are specifically tracking how many carbs in granny smith apple, the result is a favorable one.
Gala
Gala apples are among the most popular red varieties, known for their distinct sweetness and slight floral flavor. They are generally considered a medium-sweet apple, placing their carb count squarely in the middle of the apple spectrum.
How many carbs in a Gala apple? A medium Gala apple aligns very closely with the average figures discussed earlier.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Gala (Medium) | 25.0 g | 4.0 g | 21.0 g | 18.5 g |
The Gala apple is a versatile, balanced choice. When looking for how many carbs are in a Gala apple, you can use the standard medium apple figures as a reliable estimate. A small Gala apple will naturally contain fewer carbohydrates (around 19.5g total carbs).
Fuji
Fuji apples are a hybrid variety prized for their extreme crispness and very sweet flavor, comparable to the Honeycrisp. They have a high sugar content, leading to a higher overall carbohydrate count.
How many carbs in a Fuji apple? Like other intensely sweet apples, the Fuji sits at the upper end of the carb scale.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Fuji (Medium) | 26.5 g | 4.2 g | 22.3 g | 20.5 g |
The Fuji apple’s elevated carbohydrate count makes it an excellent choice for endurance athletes or those needing a quick, natural energy boost, but it should be noted for strict dieters.
Pink Lady
The Pink Lady (Cripps Pink) apple is known for its effervescent, slightly tangy-sweet flavor and firm texture. It offers a great balance between sweetness and tartness, placing its carb content in a moderate range.
How many carbs in a Pink Lady apple? It provides a nutritional middle ground, making it a very popular everyday choice.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Pink Lady (Medium) | 24.5 g | 4.5 g | 20.0 g | 18.0 g |
The slightly higher fiber content relative to its sugar makes the Pink Lady a fantastic, balanced option for a nutritious snack.
Red Delicious
The Red Delicious is perhaps the most recognizable variety, characterized by its deep, uniform red color and distinct shape. While once the most popular apple in the U.S., its texture and flavor profile tend to be milder and less acidic than modern varieties.
How many carbs in a Red Delicious apple? Its mild sweetness places it near the average for total carbs.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Red Delicious (Medium) | 25.5 g | 4.8 g | 20.7 g | 19.0 g |
The Red Delicious is a solid choice, providing good fiber content (4.8g) for digestive health. When referencing how many carbs in red apple generically, the Red Delicious serves as a very good representative example.
Cosmic Crisp
The Cosmic Crisp is a relatively new, highly-marketed hybrid known for its long shelf life, firm texture, and balanced, juicy sweetness. It’s a cross between the Honeycrisp and Enterprise varieties.
How many carbs in a Cosmic Crisp apple? Given its lineage and sweetness, it has a total carbohydrate profile similar to the Honeycrisp and Fuji.
| Variety | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Cosmic Crisp (Medium) | 26.8 g | 4.3 g | 22.5 g | 20.8 g |
The high quality and crisp texture of the Cosmic Crisp make it a premium snack, and its carb count is manageable for most healthy diets, even if slightly higher than average.
Green Apples (General)
While the Granny Smith is the most famous example, “green apples” can sometimes refer to other tart, green-hued varieties. Generally, any apple with a strong, tart flavor profile is indicative of lower sugar and, consequently, lower total carbohydrates.
How many carbs in a green apple? When you ask how many carbs in a green apple, the answer is reliably less than red varieties, reflecting their higher acid-to-sugar ratio.
| Type | Total Carbs (g) | Dietary Fiber (g) | Net Carbs (g) | Sugar (g) |
| Green Apple (Average) | 23.8 g | 4.5 g | 19.3 g | 17.5 g |
This general figure confirms that how many carbs are in a green apple is consistently on the lower end, making them beneficial for managing blood glucose. They are a great snack if you are conscious of your carb intake.
Net Carbs in an Apple
Understanding the concept of net carbohydrates is paramount for anyone on a low-carb, keto, or diabetic diet. Net carbs are the carbohydrates that are actually digested and converted into glucose (sugar) in the body.
The calculation is straightforward:
$$\text{Net Carbs} = \text{Total Carbohydrates} – \text{Dietary Fiber} – \text{Sugar Alcohols (if applicable)}$$
Since apples are whole, unprocessed fruits, they do not contain sugar alcohols. Therefore, the formula simplifies to:
$$\text{Net Carbs in an Apple} = \text{Total Carbohydrates} – \text{Dietary Fiber}$$
When someone asks how many net carbs in an apple, they are looking for the metabolic impact of the fruit. In a medium-sized apple:
$$\text{Net Carbs} = 25.0 \text{ g (Total Carbs)} – 4.4 \text{ g (Fiber)} = 20.6 \text{ g}$$
A medium apple contains approximately 20.6 grams of net carbs.
The Role of Fiber
Dietary fiber is a non-digestible carbohydrate. It passes through the small intestine largely intact and does not contribute to blood sugar spikes. In fact, fiber plays a critical role in slowing the absorption of the digestible sugars (glucose and fructose) in the apple. This moderating effect is why the actual glycemic response to an apple is much lower than the response to a high-sugar, zero-fiber food like candy.
The fiber found in apples, particularly pectin, acts as a prebiotic, promoting healthy gut bacteria. This makes the net carbs concept vital: you subtract the fiber because it is not only non-caloric/non-glycemic, but it actively improves the way your body handles the remaining digestible carbs. For those tracking how many net carbs are in an apple, remember the fiber is your friend.
Apple Nutrition per 100g (Comprehensive Section)
To allow for precise comparison with other foods and accurate serving size adjustments, nutrition is often standardized to a 100-gram serving. This section provides a detailed breakdown of an average apple’s nutrition at the 100-gram benchmark.
100g Apple Nutrition Facts
A 100-gram serving of apple is slightly less than two-thirds of a medium apple. This measurement is particularly useful for precise dietary tracking.
| Component | Amount per 100g (with skin) |
| Calories | 52 kcal |
| Water | 85.56 g |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13.81 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g |
| Sugars (Total) | 10.39 g |
| Protein | 0.26 g |
| Total Fat | 0.17 g |
| Potassium | 107 mg |
| Vitamin C | 4.6 mg |
| Iron | 0.12 mg |
When calculating 100 gm apple calories, the number is very favorable at just 52 kcal, making it one of the most calorie-efficient natural snacks available. The majority of the calories come from the apple sugar per 100g (10.39 g), and apple protein per 100g (0.26 g) is low, indicating that apples should be paired with a source of lean protein like nuts or yogurt for a balanced meal. The apple iron content per 100g is modest but contributes to daily requirements.
Red Apple Nutrition per 100g
Red apples (such as Gala, Fuji, Red Delicious, and Honeycrisp) are often slightly sweeter than their green counterparts due to a longer maturation process and higher sun exposure. This subtle difference is reflected in their 100g data.
| Component | Amount per 100g (Red Apple) |
| Total Carbohydrates | 14.2 g |
| Sugars (Total) | 10.8 g |
| Fiber | 2.2 g |
| Vitamin A | 54 IU |
| Anthocyanins | High (Antioxidants responsible for red color) |
The red apple nutrition per 100g shows a slightly elevated sugar and carb count compared to the average, although the differences are marginal. The main benefit of red skin is the high concentration of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.
White Apple Nutrition per 100g
While there is no true “white apple” variety, this term is often used colloquially to refer to the flesh of the apple, or sometimes to pale-skinned varieties like Golden Delicious. Since the inner flesh makes up the bulk of the fruit, its nutrition is very representative of the whole.
| Component | Amount per 100g (Apple Flesh Only) |
| Total Carbohydrates | 13.5 g |
| Sugars (Total) | 10.1 g |
| Fiber | 1.8 g |
| Pectin | High Concentration |
The white apple nutrition per 100g demonstrates that removing the skin (which is mostly non-white) leads to a slight decrease in fiber but doesn’t drastically change the total carbohydrate content. This flesh is rich in soluble fiber (pectin), which is crucial for lowering cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar.
Whole Apple Nutrition (1 Medium Apple)
Looking at the full picture of a single medium apple (182g) helps contextualize its role in a daily diet. It is an excellent source of essential micronutrients and hydration.
1 Apple Calories, Protein, Sugar, Fiber
A medium apple is a nutrient-dense food that provides a significant amount of water and fiber with a relatively low-calorie impact.
| Nutrient | Amount in 1 Medium Apple (182g) | % Daily Value (DV) |
| Calories | 95 kcal | – |
| Total Carbs | 25.0 g | 9% |
| Dietary Fiber | 4.4 g | 16% |
| Sugars (Natural) | 19.0 g | – |
| Protein | 0.5 g | 1% |
| Total Fat | 0.3 g | <1% |
| Vitamin C | 8.3 mg | 9% |
| Potassium | 195 mg | 4% |
| Vitamin K | 3.5 µg | 3% |
Understanding 1 apple nutrition involves recognizing its primary function as a fiber and antioxidant delivery system. While the total 1 apple calories and protein are low, its high water content (over 85%) contributes to hydration, and the fiber ensures satiety, making it a powerful tool for weight management. The 19 grams of natural sugar should be viewed in context: they are packaged with 4.4 grams of beneficial fiber, which slows absorption.
Related Foods & Products
Apples are a whole food, but they are also used as a primary ingredient in many popular processed products. The nutritional profile of these products, particularly the carb count, changes drastically due to processing, the removal of fiber, and the addition of refined sugars.
Carbs in Apple Juice
Apple juice is one of the most common products derived from apples. While it retains some of the vitamins, the processing removes virtually all the beneficial dietary fiber and often concentrates the sugars.
How many carbs in apple juice? A single 8-ounce (240ml) serving of 100% apple juice contains approximately:
- Total Carbs: 28 – 31 grams
- Sugars: 26 – 28 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0.5 grams (or less)
Notice that a glass of juice has a higher carb count than a whole medium apple, but almost no fiber. This means the net carbs are nearly identical to the total carbs, resulting in a significantly faster and higher spike in blood sugar.
Carbs in McDonald’s Apple Pie
Fast-food desserts often provide a clear example of how adding refined ingredients dramatically increases the carbohydrate and fat content compared to the whole fruit.
How many carbs in a McDonald’s apple pie? A single baked apple pie from McDonald’s (as of current data) contains:
- Total Carbs: ~33 grams
- Sugars: ~13 grams
- Total Fat: ~11 grams
- Calories: ~230 kcal
The carb count is higher than a whole apple, but a significant portion of the calories comes from the added fat in the crust and deep-frying process, making it far less nutritionally dense than the fresh fruit.
Carbs in Busch Light Apple
The increasing popularity of flavored alcoholic beverages has led to products like Busch Light Apple. These drinks add apple flavoring and often high-fructose corn syrup or other sugars to a light beer base, altering the carb profile significantly.
How many carbs in Busch Light Apple? A standard 12-ounce serving of Busch Light Apple contains approximately:
- Total Carbs: ~9.5 grams
- Sugars: ~8.3 grams
- Calories: ~130 kcal
While lower in carbs than a whole apple, almost all of the carbohydrates are digestible sugars, and these calories come without any nutritional benefit (vitamins, minerals, or fiber).
FAQs (Use Keyword Variations)
Here are the answers to some of the most common questions regarding the carbohydrate content of apples.
Does an apple have carbs?
Yes, absolutely. An apple is primarily composed of water (about 85%) and carbohydrates (about 15%), which include natural sugars (fructose, glucose, sucrose) and essential dietary fiber.
How many carbs is an apple?
A typical, medium-sized apple weighs around 182 grams and contains approximately 25 grams of total carbohydrates, of which about 4.4 grams are dietary fiber.
How many carbs are in one apple?
For standard reference, one apple (medium size, with skin) contains 25.0 grams of total carbohydrates, 4.4 grams of fiber, and 20.6 grams of net carbs.
How much carbs does an apple have?
An average medium apple has approximately 25 grams of total carbohydrates, mainly in the form of natural sugars. This makes apples a moderate-carb fruit, suitable for most balanced diets.
Are apples keto-friendly?
Apples are generally not considered keto-friendly. With an average of 20.6 grams of net carbs per medium apple, this single fruit can easily exceed the typical daily keto limit of 20–50 grams. They are better suited for moderate, low-carb or paleo diets.
Which apple has the lowest carbs?
The Granny Smith apple consistently ranks as having the lowest carbohydrate and sugar content among common varieties, offering approximately 23.5 grams of total carbs and 18.7 grams of net carbs in a medium fruit.
Is a green apple lower in carbs than red?
Yes, generally speaking, green apples (like Granny Smith) are lower in sugar and total carbohydrates than the sweeter red varieties (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) due to their higher natural acidity.
Best Apples for Low-Carb Diets
For individuals closely managing their carbohydrate intake, the variety of apples they choose can make a measurable difference. Here is a ranking of common apples from lowest to highest net carbs (per medium apple), making it easier to select the best apples for low-carb diets.
| Rank | Apple Variety | Net Carbs (g) | Total Carbs (g) | Reason |
| 1 | Granny Smith | 18.7 g | 23.5 g | Highest acidity, lowest sugar content. |
| 2 | Pink Lady | 20.0 g | 24.5 g | Excellent balance of sugar and fiber. |
| 3 | Red Delicious | 20.7 g | 25.5 g | Solid fiber content offsets the sugar. |
| 4 | Gala | 21.0 g | 25.0 g | Standard average, versatile choice. |
| 5 | Fuji | 22.3 g | 26.5 g | High sweetness means higher digestible carbs. |
| 6 | Honeycrisp | 22.6 g | 27.0 g | Highest sugar content, resulting in the highest net carbs. |
If you are on a moderate low-carb diet (e.g., 100-150g per day), any of these apples can be incorporated easily. For stricter diets, opt for the Granny Smith or simply enjoy a small apple of any variety to keep the carb count under 20 grams.
Final Summary
Apples are a nutritional powerhouse, delivering essential fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. The question of how many carbs are in an apple is answered by acknowledging the average medium apple contains 25 grams of total carbohydrates and 20.6 grams of net carbs. The fiber (about 4.4 grams) is the key component that transforms the fruit’s natural sugars into a slow-releasing energy source, beneficial for blood sugar control and digestive health.
Key Nutritional Highlights:
- Size Matters: Total carbs range from approximately 19.5g (small) to 30.5g (large).
- Skin is Essential: Consuming the skin ensures maximum fiber intake, leading to the lowest net carb impact.
- Variety Varies: Tart varieties like Granny Smith are lowest in carbs, while sweeter apples like Honeycrisp are highest.
By understanding these nuances, you can confidently integrate apples into any diet plan, ensuring you benefit fully from this delicious and healthy fruit.
References
- FoodData Central Search Results: Apples, raw, with skinÂ
- Apples: Health benefits, facts, and researchÂ
- Glycemic Index and Glycemic Load for 100+ FoodsÂ
- Comparison of Nutrient Content of Selected Apple CultivarsÂ
- Facts About Dietary FiberÂ
McDonald’s USA Nutrition Facts
